Using of Local Limestone as Aggregate in Concrete Mixture

Abstract

This research deals with the field investigations and construction properties for using limestone as a lightweight course aggregate in concrete mixture in stead of normal coarse aggregate. Concrete cubes samples have been prepared with dimensions of 150*150*150 mm according to ASTM. For these samples the normal coarse aggregate was replaced by 100% coarse crushed limestone. Three types of limestone which were used (Al-Sinea, Makhool and Himreen), it was found that the Al-Sinea type of limestone gave a good combination (fcu =32.11MPa without admixtures). The obtained results showed a suitable reduction in dead loads of structural elements and cost. Accordingly, the usage of limestone will improve the structural applications and concrete mix properties to attain economic viability. These above results make limestone as a good alternative of normal coarse aggregate.